Sparks flew in Yosemite during the spring of 1984. Michael’s eyes captured Rhonda’s across a crowded room at the Lodge. Over glasses of wine, conversations were shared, addresses exchanged, and a relationship ensued. Their first home in Fremont overlooked Weibel Vineyards where they dreamed of one day owning their own vineyard. At their second home, also in Fremont, they planted 18 vines. Before these vines reached maturity, they discovered Crane Ridge Vineyards in Livermore Valley. They purchased property with 8037 vines and built their dream home. Wood Family Vineyards winery shortly followed. Rhonda took a leave from her career as an airline pilot to handle the winemaking. Michael, a CFO, helps out where he can and enjoys the fruit of their labor, especially the award winning Chardonnay, his favorite.
The winery operations have been moved to their current location and the tasting room opened in June 2017. Their oldest son, Harrison, has taken on the role of Executive VP. They have a strong commitment to each other and to the celebration of life, family and friends. This same commitment carries over into making luscious handcrafted wines. Many visitors have said that they also feel like “Extended Family” when visiting the winery and Tasting Room which is an attest to the wonderful atmosphere at Wood Family Vineyards.
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